Marmaris Shore Excursion: Traditional Turkish Villages Private Half-Day Tour

Akyaka River Romp

5 hours

When your ship moors in Marmaris, meet your private guide at the port and board your private, air-conditioned minivan. Then, absorb the country views on your way to Akyaka, a pretty fishing town on the Gulf of Gökova.
After roughly 30 minutes, arrive and enjoy ample time in this seaside town where life has hardly changed for centuries. Tucked between pine-coated hills, the Gulf and the Azmak River, Akyaka is built in the traditional style of the Muğla province, with pine-timbered octagonal houses adorned with hand-carved balconies framing the streets.
Admire the mountain vistas, mingle with the locals, and pass shops, restaurants and coffee houses where old men play tavla (backgammon). Check out the ornate balconies and octagonal shapes of the houses as your guide explains how new buildings in the village are required to adhere to the style.
Perhaps visit a local market, watch fishermen mending their nets on the beach, and road-test Akyaka’s growing foodie reputation. Head for the fish restaurants along the Azmak for lunch (own expense) to enjoy everything from delicious homemade meze to succulent fresh fish such as sea bass and red mullet.
After around 3 hours, head through forested mountains to the quaint village of Gökçe, famed for its orange groves. Stop for refreshments (own expense) and watch village life unfold before driving to Icmeler Bay, a resort area known for its natural springs.
Drive through Icmeler and stop at Pamucak to capture the spectacular sea and mountain views on your camera. Then, return to Marmaris where your trip ends with a drop-off at the cruise port.